As the boom in hybrid mirrorless cameras continues and some have questioned the future of the entry-level DSLRs, can the launch of the smallest and lightest DSLR to date revitalize this market? We preview the key specifications of the new super small Canon 100D (Rebel SL1) and take a look at the new EOS 700D (Rebel T5i) and updated EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM ‘kit’ lens at the same time.

Canon Rebel EOS 700D (Rebel T5i): A minor update over its predecessor

The new Canon EOS 700D (Rebel T5i) replaces the existing EOS 650D (Rebel T4i) and features a very similar specification including a 18-megapixel APS-C (22.3 x 14.9mm) Hybrid CMOS sensor and Canon’s DIGIC 5 image processing engine. In fact not much has changed on the new model, which continues to feature a 9-point autofocus system, 1.04m dot 3-inch vari-angle touch screen LCD, 5fps burst shooting and a ISO 100 – 12,800 (expandable to 25,600) sensitivity range. Updates therefore are limited to the addition of a 360 degree rotating dial mode and a new external coating for a more durable finish.

Canon EOS 100D (Rebel SL1): The smallest and lightest yet

The big news however is the launch of the Canon EOS 100D (Rebel SL1) unveiled as the smallest and lightest DSLR in its class. The popularity of mirrorless hybrid cameras has been huge but with the mirror removed hybrids only allow composition via the LCD or an EVF, a change that many traditionalists have resisted.

The EOS 100D (Rebel SL1) solves that problem with a standard reflex mirror built into its diminutive 116.8 x 90.7 x 69.4mm shell that weighs only 407g. Compare that to competitors such as the Nikon D3200’s 125 x 96 x 76.5 mm 505g unit, or the Sony SLT-A37’s 124.4 x 92 x 84.7mm 506g body, and the 100D is both smaller and around 100g lighter. What’s more with a range of simple controls and built in user guides on the EOS 100D (Rebel SL1) Canon also look like they want to attract new consumers to revitalize the entry-level DSLR market.

In terms of specification the EOS 100D is very similar to the EOS 700D featuring the same 18-megapixel APS-C Hybrid CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 processing engine, ISO 100-25600 (expandable) sensitivity range, full HD video capture and that 3-inch LCD touch screen. Both DSLRs feature user-friendly Intelligent Scene Modes for simple shooting, Creative Filters for adding processing effects in-camera and of course are compatible with the full range of available Canon EOS lenses and accessories.

The update version of the Canon’s EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5 – 5.6 IS STM ‘kit’ lens is included with the standard bundle for both DSLRs, and as well as a 4-stop Image Stabilizer includes a Stepper Motor for the smooth and near silent autofocus required for video capture. Both DSLRs are available for pre-order now with body only prices of $649 for the EOS 100D (Rebel SL1) or $749 for the EOS 700D (Rebel T5i) and we look forward to publishing Sensor Scores soon.

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First replies for this comment

Re: Lenses tested on D7100

Hello everybody. First of all thanks to the DXOMARK team for their outstanding work. It would indeed be nice to have the newer Nikon 24MP DX bodies tested. I think that many people are intested in buying some new lenses but are waiting to see how they perform on the 24MP sensors (d3200, d5200, d7100). It will be very interesting to see the real impact of those extra pixels in terms of actual image resolution ? Greetings everybody.

Still a great phone

There might be no major upgrade but the T5i still has the latest and best features today. But if you are looking for "beginners" or entry-level dslr, you should consider the Rebel SL1. Read the review at http://www.squidoo.com/canon-eos-rebel-sl1-review